|
|
|
|
|
|
murmur, "I have spoken to Geoffrey. Ian, I cannot tell you how deep I am in your debt. Ask, and what I have will be given, up to and including my life. He is not the same child." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"You do not do your own son justice," Ian replied. "He is exactly the same child. He is a brave and steadfast boy. I have done nothing for him except to make him happier and to improve his swordplay and riding a little. We are quits, William. I have given you a more contented son, and you have given me a squire I can trust to the uttermost. You owe me nothing." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Salisbury shook his head. "I will not argue with you. I have said what I feel and what I mean. There is something else I wish to speak to you about. I wish I could stay, but if I do, there will be too many odd looks over it. Just tell me, who is Lady Joanna?" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Joanna! My daughterI mean, Alinor's daughter. What" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
To Ian's surprise, Salisbury broke into a roar of laughter and clapped him so heartily on the back that he jostled his knee. By the time Ian had ungritted his teeth, unsure whether his still tender back or his sore leg hurt worse, Salisbury was gone. Alinor had already left with the other more adventurous ladies to change her dress. Ian cursed under his breath and signaled to a manservant whom he instructed to pull back the bench so he could hoist himself to his feet. A strong hand seized him under the armpit and hauled him up almost painlessly. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"My thanks," Ian grunted, turned his head to see whom he was thanking, and controlled a gasp with some effort. "My lord Oxford, thank you again. And I have also to thank you for doing Alinor and myself the honor of coming to our wedding." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"There is no need for that," Aubery de Vere remarked with a self-conscious smile. "Rather should I thank you and your good lady for receiving an uninvited |
|
|
|
|
|